The Department for Transport (DfT) has been urged not to introduce new mandatory eyesight checks for drivers over the age of 70. Proposals currently under consideration would require motorists aged 70 and above to undergo an eye test every three years when renewing their driving licence.
Government Consultation on Cognitive Testing
The government consultation also explores the introduction of cognitive testing for ageing motorists, which would bring the total number of new mandatory tests to two. However, a petition launched by Kathleen Cavanagh warns the Labour government: "Do not implement Age-Based Eye Testing for Drivers Over 70 Years of Age."
Petition Against Age-Based Testing
The petition states: "Withdraw proposals for mandatory eye or health tests applying only to drivers aged 70+. Some older drivers already renew licences more frequently and self-declare medical conditions, while reports show that people aged 70+ are among the safest drivers on the road."
It adds: "We think eyesight testing for driving should be on an equal and evidence-based basis across all age groups, rather than singling out one age cohort. We feel this proposal is arbitrary and discriminatory, undermining the independence and dignity of older people without demonstrable safety evidence."
The petition has garnered over 1,000 signatures, with 10,000 needed to trigger a government response.
Support from Older Drivers
Despite the petition, some older drivers have voiced support for the measures. A 70-year-old motorist commented: "I totally agree with this proposed development as safety on the roads is paramount. We need to address avoidable risks. I now need glasses, which give me good quality sight, but I would be grateful for reassurance that my sight is consistently good enough to drive."
He added: "I would also approve of more rigorous tests for older drivers like myself. I find night-time driving on non-motorway roads more difficult than I did, and I am more likely to feel tired earlier in a journey. As older drivers, we should be prepared to demonstrate that we can drive safely on busy roads. I would hate to cause an accident due to being unfit physically or mentally to drive."
He concluded: "I am responsible to all road users, including any passengers in my car. So definitely a thumbs-up to this move."
